Diabetes and Endocrinology

About our service

St. Vincent’s Private Hospital Diabetes Unit provides a quality, evidence-based service to diabetes patients, on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.

We have provided a multidisciplinary, patient centered diabetes service for over 30 years. Our Diabetes Unit is staffed by a highly trained team of endocrinologists, and specialist nurses, who work tirelessly to ensure that national and international standards of diabetes care are adhered to.

At the unit, the patient’s overall condition will be checked. Test results and blood glucose readings will be discussed, along with other information in the patient’s diary.

The patient’s blood will also be tested for HbA1c, liver, kidney/ thyroid function and cholesterol. HbA1c shows how well the patient’s diabetes has been controlled over a 12 week period.

Blood pressure is also measured, and urine may be tested for albumin. Regular examinations of the patient’s heart, eyes, feet, and nervous system are also important, and a visit to the dietitian may also be needed while at the unit. Medications, if required are discussed.

The DAFNE Education programme is also available to patients with Type 1 diabetes. The aim of the programme is to enhance flexibility from a patient’s perspective. The freedoms that DAFNE promotes, in terms of diet, are proving it extremely popular.

Diabetes management is also provided to those with Type 2 diabetes and patients using Insulin pump devices. There is also a mobile telephone support service provided by the specialist nurses.

Accessing the unit

Although patients are predominately in charge of self managing their diabetes once a diagnosis has been made, however the team are on hand on an outpatient basis, to answer questions and offer guidance to ensure that patients are coping appropriately.

Following receipt of GP or consutlant referral, patients can attend the unit for diabetes education and a full health history review.